Jubaland Says Somalia's Crisis Requires Dialogue, Warns Against Politicizing Army 

KISMAYO, June 16 — Jubaland President Ahmed Madobe has criticized Somalia's federal government, saying the country's worsening political and security situation requires dialogue and warning against the use of state security forces for political ends.

Speaking on recent developments in Somalia, Madobe said security threats remained in several parts of the country, particularly from Al-Shabaab, while accusing the federal authorities of prioritizing political disputes and contested electoral processes over the fight against the insurgents.

"The federal government appears to have shifted its focus away from confronting the enemy and has instead become preoccupied with political disagreements," Madobe said.

The Jubaland leader also commented on recent demonstrations in Mogadishu, describing them as peaceful protests that were met with the use of force by security personnel, a response he said undermined democracy and citizens' rights.

Madobe defended Somalia's federal system, arguing that it was constitutionally agreed upon and that federal member states have the right to manage their internal affairs and conduct their own electoral processes within the framework of the country's governance arrangements.

He further argued that the mandate of the current federal administration had expired, urging Somalia's leadership to return to dialogue and pursue a broad political agreement to address the country's divisions.

Madobe called on traditional elders, politicians, and the wider public to avoid actions that could inflame tensions and instead work towards reconciliation and the establishment of an inclusive system of governance.

He also appealed to the international community to continue supporting Somalia and to encourage an inclusive, consensus-based political process.

The remarks underscore deepening tensions between the federal government and some regional administrations over security priorities, constitutional issues, and the country's electoral model, at a time when Somalia continues its campaign against Al-Shabaab.

GAROWE ONLINE